Chapter Four: The Starting Job Is Not a Prize

Kai released while Eli was still covered. The ball fell outside the defender's sight, and Eli pinned it one-handed at the goal line. Storm 31, visitors 28. Sloane applauded from his suite. Before the cameras, Grant named Kai the regular-season starter. Mountain placed the game ball in Kai's hands without smiling. “From now on, everyone will want to know what makes you special.” Across the locker room, Marcus removed the ice from his shoulder alone. Veterans gathered near him, younger players near Kai, and a clean aisle opened between the camps. Kai had won the job and split the room in two. Outside the door, someone quietly pressed Record.